It really depends on what you are going to do with it. I have the FEL, 60" mower, backhoe and 7' blade with mine. Like others have mentioned, there is very little protection underneath and there are several sensitive components that are exposed, but than can be addressed if needed. Otherwise, everything else works pretty impressively for its size. The backhoe curl is a little frustrating if you get into large tree roots, but then again it is the only BH I have used and tree roots are awfully **** strong. Otherwise it has done well for me. For typical small jobs around the house, farm, etc it is awesome. It's done fine with everything I have thrown at it, within reason of a compact tractor. The 1526 is the exact same engine on a scaled up tractor. If I wasn't using mine for mowing the yard where the 26xl is a nice size and the 1526 is simply too big, I would have gotten the 1526. I was told that the mower is not easily swapped out with the BH without changing mounting hardware. The 26XL easily transitions from one thing to another quickly. Basically for the slight price difference, the 1526 is a lot more machine but may be too much for small jobs where the 26xl shines. I have no regrets whatsoever with my 26xl.
I'm not sure if the new models are standard with a mid pto, but it was an option when I got mine. Some implements run off of a mid pto like mower deck, snow blower, etc. That might be something to keep in mind since it is complicated and expensive to add later. Personally, I think it was much better to roll all of the equipment I have into the initial cost and financing rather than add things as you need later. If you think you are going to use or need it frequently, add it to start with.
I have had some minor issues involving safety switches, and the spindle/castor set up on the mower deck. But in the scheme of things they are little issues with normal wear and tear.
